Cracker

works for me

It's just how I do it. With knives I find that stropping after the stone is the difference between it shaving the hairs on my forearm.

I'm a bit obsessed with sharpening. All I can say is it's something that comes with experience. I use water stones, finishing with 8000 grain, then strop on leather and check the edge with a microscope .

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fojgpct6dBA]exeter biochar retort - YouTube[/ame] This looks like the way to go, higher efficiency.

I run a charcoal forge and do a daily burn for the following day's work. 45s with lids and a two inch hole at the bottom. I use the "brown ends" from the previous burn in the bottom off the next barrel then stack to top with logs of similar size. Stick a blow torch it the vent hole at the bottom to light it. Burn for about two hours with the lid off and vent open, then block the vent with earth and put the lid on three quarters. Leave it like that for another three to four hours until there's about a third full of glowing chunks. Put the lid on and forget about until the next day. One barrel's burn runs the forge for about three hours. I like the gas forge...... Edit to add....if you do start making it, don't store it near stuff that will burn, like you home or workshop!

Nice and rustic, like it! I've got an adjustable spade bit, ok for blind holes, no good for drilling right through I find...

Yes. Sold to a chap in Canada who's had tools from me in the past. Here's his website, I love his work! Cedar fence builder, grapestake fencing, split rail fences

No, not heard of it done like that. It would make a hefty tool though!

Just wondering what method you use to drill the treadle frame mortises so they're all in the same plane? I've made a jig for mine. I ask because I make one or two of these a week to order and auction on ebay. Uploaded with ImageShack.us

I reckon! Good idea:thumbup1:

I reckon! Good idea:thumbup1:

Let me know how you get on, Chris. I make quite a few adzes from hammers but rarely get any feedback on how they could be improved.

Let me know how you get on, Chris. I make quite a few adzes from hammers but rarely get any feedback on how they could be improved.

Positive thinking will get you through. I reckon our standard of living in the West hit a peak maybe five years ago, one which we are unlikely to see ever again, which is good IMO, it was unsustainable anyway. If you're fed and sheltered, let alone tapping on the net, you're doing alright.

It does grow down here in Devon, on heavy clay, and does very well. There's a fair bit on my neighbors land, none on mine but I have planted some and it's doing well. I buy it in a few ton a time for gate making..etc.